A complaint has been lodged against former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Siliguri over alleged remarks relating to Sanatan Dharma. The complaint was filed by Rinki Chatterjee Singh, an advocate practising at the Jalpaiguri circuit bench of the Calcutta High Court.
According to the complaint, Banerjee allegedly made statements during a public gathering that hurt the religious sentiments of Hindu devotees and followers of Sanatan Dharma.
Allegations linked to public speeches
The complaint claimed that during a Muslim religious function, Banerjee allegedly referred to Sanatan Dharma using derogatory expressions.
It further alleged that during campaigning for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, she made remarks suggesting that Hindus would face consequences if a particular community was attacked.The complainant argued that such comments allegedly created fear, communal tension and social unrest.
Sections mentioned in complaint
- Criminal intimidation
- Intentional insult-provoking breach of peace
- Statements causing public mischief
- Defamation
- Hurting religious sentiments
The complaint seeks legal action under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Complaint accepted by Cyber Police
Officials confirmed that the matter has been formally received by the Cyber Thana in Siliguri and preliminary procedures have begun. A handwritten note on the complaint copy stated that the complaint was received on May 25 and registered for further inquiry and investigation.
The complainant also attached links of speeches and alleged video evidence along with the submission. ‘Law must apply equally’, says complainant
In her complaint, Rinki Chatterjee Singh argued that no public figure should be exempt from legal scrutiny because of political influence or office. She stated that the remarks had deeply hurt the sentiments of Sanatan Dharma followers in India and abroad.
The advocate further urged police authorities to initiate necessary legal action in accordance with the law.
Political controversy intensifies in Bengal
The complaint comes amid heightened political tensions in West Bengal following the Assembly elections. Legal complaints over campaign speeches and alleged provocative remarks have increasingly become part of the political battle between major parties in the state.
While no official response had been issued by Mamata Banerjee or the Trinamool Congress till Tuesday evening, the complaint is expected to trigger fresh political debate over election rhetoric and freedom of speech.
